The Corn Islands
Overview
White sand beaches, palm trees, verdant forests and crystal clear seas await visitors from cruise ships. The Corn Islands offer a taste of the Caribbean as it was before many of the other islands became over-developed and expensive. These islands off the coast of Nicaragua make an ideal stop-off to soak up the laid-back atmosphere and discover paradise at its most natural.The coast is littered with shipwrecks from explorers, pirates and buccaneers of yesteryear. These, together with the abundance of marine life and coral reefs, make it an excellent destination for scuba divers. The interior offers other eco-tourism adventures amid the thick vegetation of the subtropical forests.
Sightseeing
There are two Islas de Maíz - Little Corn Island and Big Corn Island. Most tourists from cruise ships will experience the larger of the two islands, which has the larger settlements and better tourist facilities.Both islands are reasonably small and it is possible to explore on foot or by bike, although there are buses and taxis on Big Corn. Actual places to visit are thin on the ground - most people come here for the natural landscape and outdoor attractions. Most will be happy to wander around, laze on one of the idyllic beaches, take a boat trip or enjoy a drink in one of the beachside reggae bars.
Highlights
• Long Bay
• Mount Pleasant Tower
• Spanish Galleon
• Bottle House (cultural centre)